Oculus Quest 2: What are the differences compared to the previous model?

Oculus Quest 2: What are the differences compared to the previous model?

09/24/2020 13:36:41 Home

Available since October 13, 2020, the Oculus Quest 2 is the successor to its predecessor the Oculus Quest, released in May 2019. The new Oculus hybrid headset is all in one, and like the previous model it can be used without wire or computer. Do not be fooled by its price which is 100 euros cheaper than that of its predecessor, the Quest 2 has arguments to make to be among the best headphones on the market at this time. The VR360 team explain to you what has changed from model to model in performance, design and function, and if it's better.

A powerful headset

The first major evolution of the Oculus Quest 2 is in its performance. Indeed, the new Oculus headset works with the very powerful Snapdragon XR2 processor and 6GB of RAM, against the Snapdragon 835 and the 4GB of RAM of the standard Quest. This not insignificant difference will allow the second version of the headset to read even more substantial content without the least harm. The helmet is available in two different versions, one of which is 64gb and the other is 256gb. This second version will delight even the most active consumers, knowing that the version of the previous Quest which has the largest storage space goes up to only 128gb.

Significantly improved graphics

To the delight of the eyes, Oculus has chosen to bet big on the graphics of its new headset. The Quest 2 has an LCD panel with 1,832 x 1,920 pixels per eye, which represents an increase in pixel count of around 50% compared to the 1,440 x 1,600 pixels of the first Quest. The second model of the Quest is announced at its release with the same refresh rate as its elder, 72Hz. But an upcoming update will increase this rate to 90Hz! The result of these optimizations is necessarily felt in the image, the quality and sharpness of which are greatly improved. This has the further effect of removing the grid effect, which was criticized in particular by the standard model.

Connection with Facebook

Another new feature, to connect to the headset interface, you will need a Facebook account if you do not already have one. An easier benefit for some, and seen as an intrusion on privacy by others, this new feature is divisive. However, there are advantages to it such as access to various applications such as Messenger, and easier to find communities, friends or colleagues.

More lightness and ergonomics

Designed in black fabric and rubber, the Oculus Quest first of the name is a headset with an aesthetic and comfortable design. This did not prevent its manufacturer from further optimizing this design for the new model by opting for a white plastic material that is easier to clean. Weight also plays a role since the Quest 2 and its 503g is 10% lighter compared to the Quest which weighs 571g. The IPD (pupillary distance) adjustments, manual and continuous on the Oculus Quest, are now made on three levels with the Oculus quest 2 and allow adaptation to as many people as possible. The user can adjust the gap or simply push the lenses in to choose what suits them best among the 1-58mm, 2-63mm, or 3-68mm setting. With this lighter, more compact and adaptable design, the Quest 2 scores points in terms of ergonomics.

The new touch controllers

The controllers have also been redesigned so that they are more ergonomic and better in the hand. The battery life is 4 times longer than on the controllers of the previous model, and this without compromising their tracking performance. This is in part due to the decrease in the number of internal tracking LEDs, which were energy intensive to operate. The layout of the buttons has been designed so that use is more intuitive and there is more space for thumb positioning.

Our opinion

The Oculus Quest 2 hits hard with a value for money that makes quality virtual reality accessible to more people. Despite being less expensive than the Quest, its specs are nonetheless stunning and much better in most areas. Until now, the first model was considered a true benchmark in Virtual Reality. But its successor is more than up to the task by offering a quality VR experience at an affordable price.

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